Martinis Above Fourth

Poised over the bustling Hillcrest nexus of Fourth and University, Martinis offers over 100 twists on this iconic beverage. There’s a swanky lounge vibe with live piano entertainment Thursday–Saturday and a breezy outdoor patio. This cocktail club is best approached during happy hour (Monday 4pm–close; Tuesday–Wednesday 4–7pm; Thursday–Saturday, 4-6pm), when ten-ounce Svedka or well vodkatinis (classic or dirty) and cosmos go for $5. Or sample Martinis’ myriad mixes in $1 shots. The place is upscale without being sterile or uptight, but purists be warned: many of the bar’s martinis are vodka-based.